While openssl is a cryptographic tool, this doesn't seem as if it is quite on-topic here per our FAQ. It might be a better fit at one of our sister sites Server Fault or Super User. Moving the question should be taken care of automatically.
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Scott PackAug 29 '12 at 17:45

It seems to me that the question is less about the tool and more about understanding the permutations of the algorithm that are preventing the tool from working. I think it's either us or crypto. I'm going to give it a day and see if a crypto bear has an answer for us here.
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Jeff Ferland♦Aug 29 '12 at 18:19

When it comes to encryption, the openssl command line tool is very restricted in its input/output format, it expects a specific header. You'll probably have to either massage the ciphertext or use another tool. What format does this des utility use? Where is it from?
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GillesAug 29 '12 at 19:37

Thanks for the reply ,Gilles. I think it was standard on Unix for a while, but may not be any more. link Can you suggest another tool that might be more appropriate than openssl?
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David DemnerAug 29 '12 at 21:26